Barry Ryan to speak at Notre Dame Club kickoff

August 18, 2013

The Greater Williamsport Notre Dame Club will kick off its 18th year with the annual kickoff-send-off meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, at the Young Men's Democratic Club, 230 East St. Guest Speaker will be Barry Ryan, class of '62 University of Notre Dame Region 12 Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Ryan is expected to make an announcement concerning the University of Notre Dame and the Greater Williamsport Notre Dame Club. The meeting is open to members, perspective members and any interested parties.

The club will honor two University of Notre Dame students, Caroline and Lizzy Heilmann, daughters of Dr. and Mrs. Tim Heilmann.

The club is an outlet for area supporters of the University of Notre Dame. Club president, Mike Dorman said the purpose of the club is to bring together all interested persons who support the University of Notre Dame and believe in its principles, Christian life, education and athletic programs.

Monthly meetings are held from August through March at the Young Men's Democratic Club with local graduates and area sports personalities as featured speakers. There are nearly 82 members, including six alumni.

At the send-off meeting in August, area students returning to Notre Dame are presented with a bookstore allowance to be used during the school year.

Many social events are sponsored by the club for members and guests, including the St. Patrick's Day party, indoor tailgate party, prayer breakfast, annual Christmas party and bus trips to football and basketball games. A memorial mass for deceased members is held before the St. Patrick's Day party.

One of the most important undertakings the Greater Williamsport Notre Dame Club supports is the Helping Hands project. Over the past 17 years, the club has raised more than $44,000 and assisted individuals with a special need.